Diego Costa moved a step closer to completing his move out of Chelsea after signing a pre-contract with Tianjian Quanjian, reported Express.co.uk on Thursday.
According to reports in Spain, Costa met agent Jorge Mendes and senior officials from Tianjin Quanjian at a restaurant in London last week to discuss a move to the Chinese Super League at the end of the season. It is reported that during the meeting, the Spain international agreed to sign his contract with the Chinese club later this month.
Costa, 28, has been offered a staggering £25.3 million per season contract, with Tianjian Quanjian expected to pay Chelsea £76.1 million to secure his services.
Tianjin Quanjian owner Shu Yuhui confirmed that talks were on with a couple of stars, hinting at having made strides towards acquiring the services of Costa.
“It’s safe to say we did make contact with all of those players, some of whom are still in talks with us,” Yuhui was quoted as saying.
“The only thing I can reveal right now is that we have agreed terms with two or three stars. The players have no problem with the deals and their clubs are also willing to let them leave.
“The only issue that remains unresolved is reaching agreements with their respective clubs over the transfer fees.”
Tianjian Quanjian had bid for Costa during their winter transfer window but failed with an £80 million offer.
Costa had earlier admitted that he is unhappy with living in London and has reportedly told Chelsea manager Antonio Conte that he wanted to leave.